egyptian mythology research paper

Ancient Egypt Research Paper Topics

This page serves as a comprehensive guide to ancient Egypt research paper topics , providing a wealth of resources for students delving into this intriguing period of history. From the outset, we provide an expansive list of 100 research paper topics, thoughtfully divided into ten categories, each focusing on a unique aspect of ancient Egyptian history. Further, we offer expert advice on how to choose a topic within the realm of ancient Egypt and provide practical guidance on writing a compelling and academically rigorous research paper on the chosen subject. We also introduce iResearchNet’s custom writing services, where students can order a customized research paper on any topic related to ancient Egypt.

100 Ancient Egypt Research Paper Topics

Ancient Egypt, with its rich and fascinating history, offers a wealth of research opportunities for students studying art history. Exploring the various aspects of ancient Egyptian civilization can provide valuable insights into their culture, religion, art, architecture, daily life, and more. In this section, we present a comprehensive list of ancient Egypt research paper topics that cover a wide range of subjects within the realm of ancient Egyptian history. These topics are organized into ten categories, each offering unique perspectives and avenues for exploration.

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Pharaohs and Rulers

The role of pharaohs in ancient Egyptian society
Hatshepsut: The female pharaoh and her reign
Akhenaten’s religious revolution: A study of the Amarna period
Ramses II: The great pharaoh and his achievements
The fall of the New Kingdom: Factors and consequences
Pharaoh Amenhotep III and his cultural contributions
Cleopatra: The last pharaoh of Egypt
Pharaoh Seti I and the construction of the Temple of Karnak
Thutmose III: The warrior pharaoh and his military campaigns
The reign of Tutankhamun: Discovery of the boy king’s tomb

Religion and Mythology

Egyptian gods and goddesses: Roles and significance
Rituals and religious practices in ancient Egypt
The Book of the Dead: Beliefs about the afterlife
The cult of Osiris: God of the dead and rebirth
The sun god Ra and his worship in ancient Egypt
The role of temples in ancient Egyptian religious practices
Animal symbolism in ancient Egyptian mythology
Mythological tales and their impact on ancient Egyptian culture
Religious ceremonies and festivals in ancient Egypt
Mummification and burial practices in ancient Egyptian religion

Art and Architecture

The construction techniques and symbolism of the pyramids
Hieroglyphics: The ancient Egyptian writing system
Tomb paintings and their portrayal of ancient Egyptian life
The architecture of temples: Karnak, Luxor, and Abu Simbel
The art of jewelry and personal adornment in ancient Egypt
Sculpture and statuary in ancient Egyptian art
Funerary art and its significance in ancient Egyptian culture
The use of color in ancient Egyptian art
The influence of ancient Egyptian art on later civilizations
The art of Amarna: A departure from traditional Egyptian style

Daily Life and Society

Social structure and classes in ancient Egypt
The role of women in ancient Egyptian society
Daily life in ancient Egyptian households
Food and cuisine in ancient Egypt
Clothing and fashion in ancient Egyptian society
Education and literacy in ancient Egypt
Sports and recreation in ancient Egyptian culture
Slavery and servitude in ancient Egypt
Medicine and healthcare practices in ancient Egypt
Ancient Egyptian marriage and family life

Trade and Economy

Trade networks and routes in ancient Egypt
Agriculture and irrigation systems along the Nile River
Economic activities and industries in ancient Egypt
Currency and trade in ancient Egyptian society
Mining and quarrying in ancient Egypt
The role of merchants in ancient Egyptian trade
International trade relations of ancient Egypt
Taxation and economic policies in ancient Egypt
Economic development during the New Kingdom
Trade with neighboring civilizations: Nubia, Mesopotamia, and the Levant

Science and Technology

Mathematics and astronomy in ancient Egypt
Engineering marvels: The construction of pyramids
Medical practices and healthcare in ancient Egypt
Ancient Egyptian understanding of anatomy and physiology
Papyrus: The ancient Egyptian writing material
Agricultural techniques and innovations in ancient Egypt
Nautical technology and shipbuilding in ancient Egypt
Astronomy and celestial observations in ancient Egypt
Ancient Egyptian calendar systems and timekeeping
Technological advancements in ancient Egyptian society

Temples and Monuments

The significance and symbolism of the Sphinx
The architecture of the Great Temple of Amun at Karnak
The temples of Luxor: Religious sanctuaries of ancient Egypt
Abu Simbel: The grand temple complex of Ramses II
The Valley of the Kings: Tombs of the pharaohs
The mortuary temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari
The temple of Horus at Edfu: A well-preserved ancient Egyptian structure
The temple of Kom Ombo: A unique double temple
The temple of Isis at Philae: A sanctuary dedicated to the goddess
The rock-cut temples of Abu Simbel: A UNESCO World Heritage site

Literature and Texts

The literature of ancient Egypt: Prose, poetry, and hymns
The wisdom literature of Ptahhotep and Amenemope
The love poetry of ancient Egypt
The story of Sinuhe: A masterpiece of ancient Egyptian literature
The instruction texts and moral teachings in ancient Egyptian society
Magical and medical texts in ancient Egypt
The Westcar Papyrus: Tales of ancient Egyptian pharaohs
The Coffin Texts: Spells and rituals for the afterlife
The Lamentations of Isis and Nephthys: Mourning rituals in ancient Egypt
The Amduat: The ancient Egyptian funerary text

Religion and Pharaohs

The divine kingship ideology in ancient Egypt
The cult of Amun and the rise of his priesthood
Atenism: The monotheistic revolution of Akhenaten
The cult of Osiris and its influence on ancient Egyptian beliefs
The role of priests and priestesses in ancient Egyptian society
The pharaoh as a religious and political figure
The rituals and ceremonies of temple worship in ancient Egypt
Funerary rites and beliefs in the afterlife
Divine queens: The role of royal women in religious practices
The worship of animal gods and goddesses in ancient Egypt

Foreign Relations and Influence

Ancient Egypt’s interactions with Nubia: Trade and diplomacy
The influence of Mesopotamian culture on ancient Egypt
Ancient Egypt and the Hittites: Wars and peace treaties
Egyptian connections with the civilizations of the Levant
The impact of Greek and Roman culture on ancient Egypt
Foreign influences on Egyptian art and architecture
The influence of ancient Egyptian religion on neighboring civilizations
Ancient Egyptian expeditions and exploration beyond Egypt’s borders
The role of mercenaries in ancient Egyptian military campaigns
Egyptian artifacts and influence found in other ancient civilizations

The ancient civilization of Egypt continues to captivate the imagination of scholars and enthusiasts alike. From the enigmatic pharaohs and their grand monuments to the intricate religious beliefs and artistic expressions, the study of ancient Egypt offers endless possibilities for research and exploration. By delving into the ancient Egypt research paper topics presented here, students can uncover new insights and make meaningful contributions to the field of art history. Whether your interests lie in the tombs of the pharaohs, the spiritual beliefs of the ancient Egyptians, or the architectural wonders that still stand today, the world of ancient Egypt awaits your exploration.

Ancient Egypt: Exploring the Range of Research Paper Topics

The ancient civilization of Egypt, with its majestic pyramids, enigmatic hieroglyphs, and legendary pharaohs, continues to fascinate scholars and students alike. The study of ancient Egypt offers a treasure trove of research paper topics that shed light on the rich history, culture, and contributions of this remarkable civilization. In this section, we will embark on a comprehensive exploration of the diverse range of ancient Egypt research paper topics available in ancient Egyptian history, inviting students to delve deeper into the captivating world of ancient Egypt.

Pharaohs and Rulers : The Pharaohs of ancient Egypt held immense power and were regarded as divine beings. Research paper topics in this category could delve into the role of pharaohs in ancient Egyptian society, examining their political, religious, and cultural significance. Students could explore the lives of famous rulers like Hatshepsut, Ramses II, and Akhenaten, analyzing their reigns, achievements, and the impact they had on the development of Egypt.
Religion and Mythology : Ancient Egyptian religion was a complex system of beliefs, rituals, and myths that shaped every aspect of life. Topics in this category could explore the pantheon of gods and goddesses worshipped by the ancient Egyptians, the rituals and ceremonies performed in temples, and the role of religion in society. Students could also delve into the fascinating world of Egyptian mythology, examining creation stories, the afterlife, and the concept of divine kingship.
Art and Architecture : Ancient Egyptian art and architecture are renowned for their grandeur, symbolism, and meticulous craftsmanship. Research paper topics in this category could focus on various forms of artistic expression, such as sculpture, painting, and monumental architecture. Students could explore the iconic pyramids of Giza, the stunning murals and carvings found in tombs and temples, and the techniques and materials used in ancient Egyptian art. They could also investigate the symbolic significance of motifs, such as the ankh, the lotus flower, and the eye of Horus.
Daily Life and Society : To gain a deeper understanding of ancient Egyptian society, it is essential to examine the daily life and experiences of its people. Research paper topics in this category might include the roles and responsibilities of men and women in ancient Egyptian society, the daily routines of people from different social classes, and the importance of agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship in sustaining the civilization. Students could also explore topics such as family life, education, and the social hierarchies that existed during this period.
Trade and Economy : Ancient Egypt was a thriving center of economic activity, with a well-developed trade network that extended across the region. Topics in this category could explore trade routes, valuable commodities, economic systems, and the impact of foreign trade on the economy of ancient Egypt. Students could analyze the importance of the Nile River as a lifeline for transportation and trade, as well as the development of specialized industries, such as weaving, pottery, and metalworking.
Science and Technology : Despite being an ancient civilization, the Egyptians made significant advancements in various scientific and technological fields. Research paper topics in this category might focus on ancient Egyptian medicine and healthcare practices, including the use of herbal remedies and surgical techniques. Students could explore advancements in astronomy and mathematics, such as the development of the calendar and the construction of monumental structures aligned with celestial events. They could also investigate engineering marvels, such as the irrigation systems that transformed the desert into fertile land, and the construction techniques employed in building pyramids and temples.
Temples and Monuments : The temples and monuments of ancient Egypt stand as testaments to the religious and cultural practices of the time. Research paper topics in this category could include in-depth studies of specific temples, such as Karnak or Luxor, exploring their architectural features, religious significance, and the rituals performed within them. Students could also delve into the rock temples of Abu Simbel, the grandeur of the Valley of the Kings, and the enigmatic Sphinx, investigating their historical and cultural significance.
Hieroglyphs and Writing Systems : Ancient Egypt is renowned for its hieroglyphic writing system, which played a vital role in communication, record-keeping, and religious texts. Research paper topics in this category could explore the development and decipherment of hieroglyphs, the use of writing in ancient Egyptian society, and the significance of texts such as the Book of the Dead. Students could also investigate other forms of writing, such as hieratic and demotic scripts, and examine the role of scribes in ancient Egyptian culture.
Nubia and Egyptian Influence : The relationship between ancient Egypt and the neighboring region of Nubia presents an intriguing area of study. Research paper topics in this category could focus on the cultural exchange, trade relations, and military conflicts between the two civilizations. Students could explore the influence of Egyptian art, architecture, and religious practices on Nubian culture, as well as the impact of Nubian rulers on Egypt during the period of Kushite rule.
Tombs and Burial Practices : Ancient Egyptian tombs provide valuable insights into the beliefs and practices surrounding death and the afterlife. Topics in this category could explore the construction and symbolism of tombs, the rituals and ceremonies associated with burial, and the role of mummification in preserving the body for the journey to the afterlife. Students could also investigate the treasures and artifacts discovered in tombs, such as the tomb of Tutankhamun, and analyze their cultural and historical significance.

The study of ancient Egypt offers a captivating journey into a civilization that continues to captivate our imagination. The comprehensive list of ancient Egypt research paper topics invites students to explore various aspects of this remarkable civilization, including its political structures, religious beliefs, artistic achievements, societal dynamics, and technological advancements. By delving into these topics, students can gain a deeper understanding of the ancient Egyptians’ contributions to human civilization and engage in the ongoing exploration and appreciation of this extraordinary culture.

Choosing Ancient Egypt Research Paper Topics

Choosing a research paper topic can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to a subject as vast and fascinating as ancient Egypt. To help you navigate through the wealth of possibilities, this section offers expert advice on selecting the most suitable research paper topic in the field of ancient Egyptian history. By considering these tips, you can narrow down your focus, identify compelling research questions, and embark on an engaging and insightful exploration of ancient Egypt.

Define Your Area of Interest : Ancient Egypt encompasses a wide range of topics, from pharaohs and pyramids to art and religion. Begin by identifying your area of interest within the field. Are you intrigued by the political structures of ancient Egypt, or do you find the religious practices and mythology more captivating? Defining your area of interest will help you narrow down your options and choose a topic that truly engages you.
Consider the Available Resources : Research paper topics require access to relevant and reliable sources of information. Before finalizing your topic, consider the availability of resources such as books, scholarly articles, museum collections, and online databases. Ensure that there is ample material to support your research and provide a solid foundation for your paper.
Explore Unexplored Areas : While ancient Egypt has been extensively studied, there are still unexplored or lesser-known aspects that offer exciting research opportunities. Look for niche topics or specific aspects of ancient Egyptian history that have not received significant attention. By exploring these unexplored areas, you can contribute to the field with fresh insights and original research.
Narrow Your Focus : Ancient Egypt is a vast subject, spanning thousands of years and encompassing various dynasties and periods. To create a focused and manageable research paper, narrow down your focus to a specific time period, dynasty, or theme. For example, you could examine the role of women in ancient Egyptian society during the New Kingdom or explore the religious reforms of Pharaoh Akhenaten. Narrowing your focus will allow for more in-depth analysis and a more coherent research paper.
Identify Research Gaps : As you delve into existing literature on ancient Egypt, pay attention to research gaps or unanswered questions. These gaps provide fertile ground for original research and the opportunity to contribute new insights. Identify areas where further investigation is needed or where differing viewpoints exist. By addressing these gaps, you can add value to the scholarly discourse on ancient Egyptian history.
Incorporate Interdisciplinary Perspectives : Ancient Egypt intersects with various disciplines, including archaeology, anthropology, art history, linguistics, and more. Consider incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives into your research paper. For example, you could analyze the archaeological evidence alongside textual sources to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a specific aspect of ancient Egyptian culture. Incorporating diverse perspectives will enrich your research and provide a well-rounded analysis.
Analyze Primary and Secondary Sources : To develop a well-supported research paper, it is crucial to engage with both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources include ancient Egyptian texts, inscriptions, and artifacts, while secondary sources encompass scholarly works, articles, and analyses. By critically evaluating primary and secondary sources, you can construct a robust argument based on evidence and scholarly interpretations.
Consult with Your Instructor or Advisor : Seek guidance from your instructor or advisor throughout the topic selection process. They can provide valuable insights, suggest potential research directions, and offer recommendations based on their expertise. Collaborating with your instructor or advisor ensures that your chosen topic aligns with the academic requirements and expectations of your research paper.
Balance Depth and Breadth : Striking a balance between depth and breadth is crucial when selecting an ancient Egypt research paper topic. Avoid ancient Egypt research paper topics that are too broad, as they can result in superficial analysis. Similarly, excessively narrow topics may limit the availability of sources and hinder your ability to develop a comprehensive argument. Aim for a topic that allows you to delve deeply into a specific aspect while maintaining a broader context.
Follow Your Passion : Ultimately, choose a topic that ignites your passion and curiosity. When you are genuinely interested in the subject matter, your enthusiasm will shine through in your research and writing. Explore topics that resonate with your personal interests, academic goals, and career aspirations. By following your passion, you will be motivated to conduct thorough research, analyze the findings critically, and produce a compelling research paper.

Choosing the right research paper topic is a crucial step in conducting a successful study on ancient Egypt. By following these expert tips, you can navigate the vast landscape of ancient Egyptian history and select a topic that aligns with your interests, resources, and research goals. Remember to define your area of interest, consider available resources, explore unexplored areas, narrow your focus, identify research gaps, incorporate interdisciplinary perspectives, consult with your instructor, analyze primary and secondary sources, balance depth and breadth, and, above all, follow your passion. With these strategies in mind, you are well-equipped to embark on an engaging and enlightening exploration of ancient Egypt.

How to Write an Ancient Egypt Research Paper

Writing a research paper on ancient Egypt requires careful planning, thorough research, and effective organization. This section provides a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and develop a high-quality research paper that explores the fascinating world of ancient Egypt. From selecting a research question to polishing your final draft, these tips will assist you in crafting a well-structured and insightful paper.

Select a Research Question : Begin by selecting a focused research question that will guide your study. Your question should be specific, clear, and relevant to the field of ancient Egyptian history. Consider the gaps in existing knowledge or unresolved debates within the discipline. Formulate a question that allows for in-depth analysis and generates new insights into the chosen topic.
Conduct In-Depth Research : To build a strong foundation for your research paper, engage in comprehensive and scholarly research. Explore various sources, including books, academic journals, museum collections, and reputable online databases. Take notes, highlight key points, and critically evaluate the information gathered. Pay attention to different perspectives and interpretations to develop a well-rounded understanding of the topic.
Create an Outline : Organize your research findings by creating a clear and logical outline for your research paper. An outline helps you structure your ideas, define the main sections of your paper, and maintain a coherent flow of information. Divide your paper into introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, and allocate specific points or arguments to each section. This will serve as a roadmap for your writing process.
Write a Compelling Introduction : The introduction is the first impression of your research paper. Begin with an attention-grabbing opening sentence that hooks the reader and introduces the importance of your research topic. Provide background information on ancient Egypt and its relevance to the research question. Clearly state your research objective and preview the main points or arguments that will be explored in the paper.
Develop Strong Body Paragraphs : The body paragraphs are where you present your research findings, analysis, and supporting evidence. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or argument related to your research question. Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea. Support your arguments with relevant examples, citations from scholarly sources, and references to primary and secondary sources.
Analyze and Interpret Evidence : As you present your research findings, analyze and interpret the evidence in a critical and scholarly manner. Evaluate primary and secondary sources, consider different viewpoints, and demonstrate your ability to draw informed conclusions. Use direct quotations, paraphrases, and summaries to incorporate evidence and citations into your paper. Avoid plagiarism by properly citing all sources used.
Provide Historical Context : Ancient Egypt existed in a rich historical context with its own social, cultural, and political dynamics. Provide the necessary historical context to help readers understand the significance of your research topic. Explain relevant historical events, key figures, societal structures, and cultural practices that influenced ancient Egyptian history. This contextual information will enhance the readers’ understanding of your research.
Utilize Visual Materials : Ancient Egypt is renowned for its visual arts, including intricate hieroglyphics, monumental architecture, and stunning artifacts. Incorporate visual materials such as images, diagrams, maps, or illustrations to supplement your written analysis. Visual materials can provide visual evidence, support your arguments, and engage readers in a more immersive exploration of ancient Egypt.
Craft a Coherent Conclusion : The conclusion of your research paper should summarize your main findings, restate your thesis or research question, and provide a concise synthesis of your arguments. Reflect on the significance of your research in the context of ancient Egyptian history and its broader implications. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion and leave the reader with a sense of closure and satisfaction.
Revise and Edit : Once you have completed the initial draft of your research paper, take the time to revise and edit it thoroughly. Review the structure, clarity, and coherence of your arguments. Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and formatting consistency. Ensure that your citations are accurate and properly formatted according to the chosen citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago/Turabian.

Writing an ancient Egypt research paper requires a systematic and thoughtful approach. By selecting a focused research question, conducting thorough research, creating an outline, and developing strong arguments, you can produce a well-crafted and insightful paper. Remember to provide historical context, analyze and interpret evidence, utilize visual materials, and conclude with a concise synthesis of your findings. With careful planning, diligent research, and effective writing techniques, you can showcase your knowledge and passion for ancient Egyptian history in a compelling research paper.

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History Cooperative

Egyptian Mythology: The Gods, Heroes, Culture, and Stories of Ancient Egypt

Ancient Egyptian mythology is the collection of myths and religious practices belonging to the Nile River Valley civilization. The beliefs of the ancient civilization lasted until the fall of the Ptolemaic Dynasty in 30 BCE at the hands of the Roman Empire. Thereafter, Egypt became a Roman subdivision and Christianity became the main religion of the country.

The stories of ancient Egypt are among the oldest in the world. What mythology has survived offers invaluable insight into the ancient culture that once dominated Northeast Africa. Below, we’ll rediscover the mythology that sustained generations eons ago.

Table of Contents

When Was Egyptian Mythology Created?

Egyptian mythology as we know it was established back in the Early Dynastic Period (3100 – 2686 BCE). Rather than Egyptian literature, evidence of Egyptian mythology’s inception is found in funerary practices and cultural artwork. By the Predynastic Period, the earliest known ancient Egyptian gods and goddesses began to emerge. The rest, as they say, is history.

The Ancient Egyptian Pantheon

The ancient Egyptian pantheon is filled with approximately 1,400 colorful characters. Of these gods, their worship was spread across the ancient world – from home shrines to local temples. Not to mention that the gods were thought to be everywhere: from the waters of the Nile to the blazing sun. Even the fertile earth itself was a revered deity.

Each day discoveries are being made regarding the gods and goddesses of ancient Egypt . Although we may not know all of their names and roles today, we never know what waits on the horizon. Perhaps Akeru has an idea?

In ancient Egypt, the Ogdoad – or the “Eight” – were a collection of primordial deities. They were there at the beginning of creation and are counted as the first generation of deities. The eight deities were first referenced during Egypt’s Old Kingdom, though were considered archaic even then.

The Ogdoad was likely recognized, though not actively worshiped, by the start of Egypt’s written history. Their prevalence in the Pyramid Texts and subsequent Coffin Texts suggests a significant shared role in the afterlife. By the time of the New Kingdom, Egyptian theologians had renewed interest in the Ogdoad and looked into revamping their creation myth.

Primarily worshiped by the theologians in Hermopolis (Khemenu), the Ogdoad consists of four couples. Each couple shares a name and has a specific primordial attribute assigned to them.

Nu and Naunet (sky and water)
Hehu and Hehut (atmosphere, generations, and infinity – or the passage of time)
Kekui and Kekuit (primordial darkness and/or day-to-night cycles)
Qerh and Qerhet (repose, stillness, or peaceful death)

Now, the next set of ancient Egyptian gods is the Ennead. They’re the popular kids of the pantheon and are the undeniable fan-favorites of Egyptian legend. These nine deities include the sun god Atum and his descendants.

According to Heliopolitan oral tradition, Atum (later known as the composite Atum-Ra), was born sometime during the deluge myth. From then on, he became the first of the gods, the first king, and an archetypal creator god. He begets Shu and Tefnut , who went on to have their children, Geb and Nut. Against the wishes of their father, the union of Geb and Nut gave birth to Osiris, Isis , Set, and Nephthys.

The Great Ennead was one of many collections of gods throughout the realms of Upper and Lower Egypt. Groups of 2, 3, 4, 8, and 9 deities were the most common. Variations to Egyptian mythology across ancient Egypt lead to a plethora of practices and beliefs. Occasionally, these beliefs would be in direct opposition to others.

Heliopolitan beliefs were not fully accepted in the rest of Egypt, with regions and cities bearing their own personal religious practices. For example, followers of Ptah in Memphis disregarded Heliopolis’ reverence of the Ennead since their creation myth regards Ptah as the creator god and parent of Atum. Likewise, discourse could be found among those few who venerated the Ogdoad’s role in creation.

Horus the Elder*

* Horus the Elder was an occasional addition to the Great Ennead, although not frequently counted amongst the standard nine

The Four Sons of Horus

As far as the Four Sons of Horus are concerned, they are all about canopic jars. Literally. The Four Sons each represent a canopic jar and their respective organs. They are guardians, protectors, and funerary deities.

Although they are chucked up to be nothing but protectors of the dead king in the Pyramid Texts , the Four Sons of Horus are considered to be among the most ancient deities. Not only the gods of canopic jars, but the Four Sons also represented cardinal points for the ancient Egyptians and held great astronomical importance.

Imsety (the Liver)
Hapi (the Lungs)
Duamutef (the Stomach)
Qebehsenuef (the Intestines)

More often than not, two of the Sons would be switched, thereby indicating that there was no strict protocol to which Son had which organs. What was more important is that the Four Sons remained together.

The number 4 appears to hold great significance within ancient Egypt and was counted as a sacred number. It represented balance, being closely linked to the entity Maat. At some point in Egyptian history, canopic jars became more symbolic burial pieces than actual containers for displaced viscera.

The Eye of Ra

The deities that compose the Eye of Ra are exclusively goddesses. Thought as the feminine counterpart of the sitting solar deity, they were the embodiment of the sun god’s wrath. The Eye of Ra was responsible for crushing his enemies and, by extension, the enemies of the pharaohs .

Those goddesses associated with the Eye of Ra in Egyptian myth range from the lion-headed goddess Sekhmet to the serpentine Wadjet. All the goddesses of the Eye are close to Ra, whether they were identified as his mother, sister, daughter, or consort. We even have two of Egypt’s most famous cat gods !

The 42 Judges of Maat

Also known as the Assessors of Maat, the 42 Judges were major pagan gods tied to the judgment of the soul in the afterlife, Duat. A conference would be held with the Judges in attendance. Anubis and Osiris would also be there, among other Egyptian deities. The soul of the dead would then recite the Negative Confession of Maat, that they lived in adherence to the principles and revelation of the gods.

In the Hall of Truth, it would be a pretty bad time to get stage fright. Thankfully, notes would have been supplied in the tomb for easy reference. Huzzah!

Having a Negative Confession on hand would be especially important when considering each Confession would be tailored to the deceased individual. The content of a Confession would depend on the region where the deceased lived, their social class, and their career. A priest would not recite the same confession as a craftsman, as it was thought that they lived very different lives.

The most comprehensive picture of the 42 Judges comes from the Papyrus of Ani and The Book of the Dead . The Assessors of Maat each represented one of the 42 nomes (i.e. districts) of ancient Egypt. Moreover, each Confession would be addressed to one of the 42 Judges who were to then determine the validity of the deceased’s claims.

Cavern and Gate Deities

The cavern and gate deities of ancient Egypt are a bit more…creepy, to say the least. Be ready for those gods that behead and devour, because that’s what these gods and goddesses are all about.

Way down in Duat dwell a handful of Egypt’s Chthonic deities. Their roles are restricted to the affairs of the afterlife.

Oh, and unintentionally – or intentionally – scaring the souls out of the living.

The cavern deities are known for their frightening dispositions and gnawing hunger. As minor deities, they are seldom mentioned outside of the funerary text, The Book of Caverns . The text details the twelve caverns of Duat and their looming residents, all of whom are responsible for punishing those souls who didn’t pass the Weighing of the Heart. Honestly, the cavern deities make the gate deities seem tame.

In Egyptian mythology, the gate deities were a collection of minor deities that guarded the gates of Duat. Ancient Egyptians believed that there were several gates leading up to the underworld, all of which had their personal gate guards attending them. The gates would be opened for the souls of the dead and the solar barge, Atet, as described in The Book of Gates . Some sources claim there are over 1,000 deities associated with the gates; meanwhile, The Book of the Dead notes only seven. However, tomb paintings in the Valley of the Kings address twelve separate gates.

Akhenaten and Atenism

Pharaoh Akhenaten – previously Amenhotep IV – goes down in history as the king who tried to enforce monotheism in Egypt’s Amarna Period. A controversial figure, Akhenaten’s religion of Atenism worshiped the light of the sun itself as a god. The sun god , Aten, is represented as a sun disk.

To no one’s surprise, Atenism didn’t catch on.

No one was rooting for Atenism, save for Akhenaten and those within his court. Most of Atenism’s unpopularity has to do with it being forced upon the populace, primarily through the defacement of polytheistic religious iconography and laws against traditional polytheism. Not to mention, no one liked Akhenaten too much. He ruled during a time of social upheaval and created more instead of quelling it.

You see, up until Akhentan’s rule, Egypt had a rigorous status quo that the civilization had been abiding by for centuries. With his ascension and the introduction of Atenism, things started to go downhill. He moved to the capital city, neglected official duties, and refused to deal with growing social unrest. Although the art scene of the Amarna Period flourished, Egypt’s power began to waver.

Who are the 9 Main Gods of Egypt?

The 9 main gods of Egypt are usually considered the Ennead of Heliopolis. Atum and his direct descendants are among the most well-known of the deities of ancient Egypt. They were not, however, universally accepted as being the most important.

Egyptian myths, as they were, left room for a lot of interpretations. It isn’t exactly an error in modern translations either: Egyptian mythology really did have a ton of variations.

Some folks believed that the world was created in a completely different way than what their neighboring city believed. Many thought the creation was the doing of a sun god, while the cult of Ptah believed the patron of craftsmen was responsible for existence. Others lived within cities and settlements that didn’t necessarily venerate a creator god, rather than a guardian city god .

The big takeaway is that human beings will do what works for them. Way back in ancient Egypt, no one was really on the same page when it came to religion. Thus, the Great Ennead were the main gods of Heliopolis, but not the whole of Egypt. Many deities had various roles and interpretations, leading to far-reaching cult influences and religious discourse.

Why Do Egyptian Gods Have Animal Heads?

So, you may have noticed one striking feature of the Egyptian gods and goddesses: their heads. While they carry the divine grace of any other deity (and the good looks), most of the Egyptian pantheon have animal heads and human bodies.

Otherwise called zoomorphism, animal-headed gods are nothing new. Way back during the Stone Age, mankind’s ancestors began to create zoomorphic images with possibly religious connotations. Ancient peoples likely realized that some animals had set characteristics, those both admirable and fearsome.

READ MORE: Cave Paintings: The Art of the Ancients in Europe, Africa, Asia, and More!

Gods who have the form of a certain animal are believed to share characteristics with that creature. Over time, these animals became sacred, with some being interpreted as the incarnations of the gods themselves. One of the greatest examples of sanctified animals is in the case of the cult of Bastet , whose popularity in ancient Egypt led to the modern misinterpretation that Egyptians worshiped cats.

What Happened to the Egyptian Gods?

By the early 5th century CE, the ancient Egyptian religion began to decline in favor of Christianity. At this point in history, Egypt was considered a division of the Roman Empire and thus had to contend with Roman laws as instituted by the reigning emperor. The outlawing of pagan cults in the 6th century CE impacted traditional Egyptian religious practices and further enforced the Romanization of the Egyptian populace. When Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity and legalized its practice in 311 AD, those Christians within the Empire no longer had to fear persecution.

Called Coptic Orthodoxy , Christianity in ancient Egypt was based in Alexandria and became known as one of the largest centers of Christianity in the ancient world. Aspects of Egyptian pagan worship became a part of local Christian practices. Moreover, myths and certain motifs found in Egyptian lore donated to early Christian concepts : the Holy Trinity , resurrection, and life being spoken into creation.

The Religious Practices of Ancient Egyptian Mythology

The religious practices of ancient Egyptian mythology revolve around their polytheistic system of belief. Myths and gods were celebrated regularly with feasts, festivals, and sacrifices. Temples were public institutions of worship, while in-home shrines were reserved for household deities. Priests were local leaders, though they would defer to the pharaoh if the religious observation calls for his leadership.

Mythology was regularly revisited and relived. Most myths inspired the festivals that filled the calendars of the ancient Egyptians. Even the five added days that allowed Nut to give birth to her children were observed as the Epagomenae.

The festivals celebrated in ancient Egypt would have been spectacles to behold. Cult processions would have been led on land and across the Nile. Some water shows would be performed on the Mediterranean and Red Seas. There would be days of feasting, drinking, dancing, and singing.

READ MORE: Who Invented Water? History of the Water Molecule

Who said the worship of the gods had to be boring?!

Some of the most important festivals of ancient Egypt had to do with the veneration of specific deities found in popular Egyptian myths. The celebration of New Year’s Day, called Wepet-Renpet (“The Opening of the Year”), was an event led by priests of the cult of Osiris. The event celebrated the god’s rebirth and the roles his sisters had in his resurrection. At the start of the new year, there was no better time to venerate the god of rebirth.

Other ancient Egyptian festivals hosted in ancient Egypt include…

The Festival of Drunkenness (the Tekh Festival) to honor Hathor
The Thoth Festival
The Wag Festival
The Opet Festival
The Festival of Khoiak (Sokar)
The Beautiful Feast of the Valley (Wadi Festival)

Most major gods had cults. Minor gods – not so much. There were even cults dedicated to the reigning king !

Cult worship in ancient Egypt was standard practice. Moreover, thanks to Egypt’s advantageous commercial location, their cults’ influence spread far past regional bounds. The most famous example of this is the cult of Isis, which was prominent throughout archaic Europe and the Middle East.

The cult of Isis – the mysteries of Isis in the Greco-Roman societies – was popular amongst women, servants, and slaves. Although adjustments were made to religious texts and practices as the cult spread, the cult of Isis became one of the most practiced worships of the classical world. The only other Egyptian god to achieve similar recognition is Serapis, a Greco-Egyptian variation of Osiris-Apis.

In ancient Egyptian beliefs, life continues after death. It was thought that worldly possessions could be carried into the afterlife. While this explains why burial tombs are filled with such splendor, it also explains why there are specific items required for burial. Thankfully, the preservation of ancient artifacts within Egyptian tombs has given us a clearer picture of sacrifices in Egyptian Mythology.

READ MORE: The Egyptian Afterlife: Mummification, Burial Practices and Beyond

When a king would die – or even a high-ranking noble – it would be customary to ritually kill several of their servants. They aren’t blood sacrifices, really, to appease any specific god. Instead, the killed servants would be entombed with their masters so that they would be able to continue their service. Retainer sacrifices were, above all else, a show of power and wealth. It was also not unheard of for animals to also be sacrificed for the sake of company after death.

The Ka, the Ba, and the Akh

The ancient Egyptians had a unique approach to the concept of the soul. There are several components, or parts, to a soul. This belief was also applicable to the gods, with a number of the deities existing as an aspect of a separate god’s soul.

In the journal article “Soul-Concepts” in Ancient Near Eastern Mythical Texts and Their Implications for the Primeval History author Michaela Bauks states that “Egyptian anthropology introduces different incorporeal elements, significant in the context of the journey to the afterlife. Breath seems to be the life force of the living body.” Thus explaining the significance of the goddess Heqet breathing life into human beings at their birth. It is further emphasized in variations of the world’s origin story where the Egyptian creator god would “breathe,” or speak, life into existence.

Khet (physical body)
Sah (one’s spiritual body)
Ren (the identity)
Ba (personality)
Ka (the vital essence)
Ib (the heart)
Shut (the shadow)
Sekhem (form)
Akh (the collective pieces of the soul)

Famous Myths and Legends of Egyptian Mythology

Egyptian myths often take the form of epic poems, akin to the Greek Iliad and Odyssey . They were recorded on papyri and can be found represented in tomb paintings. Prior to the development of a written language, Egyptian myths, and legends were relayed through oral traditions .

The Creation Myth of Ra
The Creation Myth of Ptah
The Creation Myth of Atum
The Creation Myth of Amun
The Myth of Osiris and Isis
Anubis and the Weighing of the Heart
The Myth of Horus and Set
Thoth and Writing
Sekhmet and the Destruction of Mankind
The Lioness Bastet and the Defeat of Apep
The Bennu and the Phoenix

What is the Most Famous Egyptian Myth?

The most famous of all the Egyptian myths is the thrilling tale of romance and revenge in the resurrection of Osiris . Immediately following Osiris’ ascension to the throne, the myth recounts Osiris’ murder by his brother Seth and his subsequent resurrection at the hands of Nephthys and Isis. The resurrected Osiris mated with his sister, Isis, who then gave birth to the infant Horus .

Raised in reeds, Horus grew to avenge his father and defeated the chaotic Seth. Thereafter, he gave Osiris his eye. The Eye of Horus goes on to sustain Osiris in the afterlife.

Ancient Egyptian Mythology Heroes

The heroes of ancient Egyptian mythology don’t stand out as demigods or legendary warriors. Instead, they are famous physicians, healers, priests, and – above all else – magicians.

Ancient heroes tend to reflect the values of their respective cultures. Where many civilizations have heroes that embody strength, wit, or resilience, Egypt’s heroes are marked by their spiritual fortitude. They were magic wielders whose impressive feats in life lead to their deification after death.

Amenhotep (son of Hapu)

* Setna is thought to be Khaemwaset, with accounts of the character first being recorded hundreds of years after Khaemwaset’s death; his son, Se-Osiris, was an even more powerful magician according to legends

Gods and Kingship

There is an undeniable connection between the Egyptian pantheon and the kings of ancient Egypt. The pharaohs were considered divinely charged with being the representatives of the gods. It was their job to – in a sense – shepherd their people and remain connected to the gods and goddesses. Egyptian belief in the rule of the pharaoh can be tied back to folklore, which cites the royal family as being descendants of the god Horus.

Mythical Creatures of Ancient Egypt

Egyptian belief surrounding mythical creatures dates back to the earliest start of civilization. A number of mythical creatures of ancient Egypt can be counted as minor deities in some scholarly lens. Others, like the scarab beetle, are largely symbolic of a larger religious motif.

Abtu and Anet
The Griffin
The Hieracosphinx
Khepri (the scarab beetle)
The Set Animal (not Set, the god)

The Monsters of Egyptian Mythology

As with most ancient civilizations , the monsters that lurk in Egyptian mythology are there to send a warning. Whether it is to avoid wandering too close to the banks of the Nile or to steer clear of temptation, the monsters of Egyptian mythology make a surprisingly short list.

The most famous Egyptian monster is Apep, a snake god of primordial chaos. It was believed that each night, Apep would battle Ra and be defeated. The conflict highlights the cosmic struggle between order (Maat) and disorder.

The Serpopard*

* “Serpopard” is a modern term for the monster as it bears both serpentine and leopard qualities; we do not know the ancient name of the Serpopard

Legendary Objects in Egyptian Mythology

The legendary objects in Egyptian mythology are a fascinating subject for a handful of reasons. Most notably: they aren’t any old enchanted Egyptian weapon or cursed family heirloom. Instead, legendary items include those objects that are personal to the ancient Egyptian gods and goddesses themselves.

Above we discussed the kings of Egypt and their unique roles as living gods. If not gods, they were certainly selected as messengers of them. Several legendary artifacts are tied to the symbolic rule of the pharaoh.

The Eye of Horus
The Eye of Ra (the Udjat Eye)
The Ben-Ben
The Crook and the Flail
The Djed (a.k.a. Osiris’ backbone)
The Was-Sceptre
The Lotus (Sesen)

Hit Plays Depicting Egyptian Mythology

Live performances were a hit in ancient Egypt, with the populace regularly enjoying public theater. Oftentimes, plays revolved around a significant myth or legend. The Greek historian Herodotus compared the theater of Egypt to Grecian mysteries; he details the theatrics performed on a man-made lake that depict Osiris’ life, his death, and his eventual rebirth to triumph over his enemies. In a number of plays, the ruling pharaoh would participate in the role of a divine hero.

Unlike the beloved tragedies of their Greek neighbors, the Egyptian plays were nearly entirely devoid of dramatics. They were primarily retellings of famous myths, and just about all performances had theological implications. Backdrops, props, dances, and choruses were all facets of ancient Egyptian plays. During the Greco-Roman period, famous Greek and Roman plays were also performed.

Isis and the seven scorpions
The contendings of Horus and Seth
The birth of Ihy

Amazing Artwork of Egyptian Legends

Art of ancient Egypt includes tomb paintings, statues and architecture, pottery, papyrus paintings, jewelry, and friezes. The earliest examples of Egyptian artworks date back to the Merimde culture (5000 to 4200 BCE) of the Western Nile River Delta. The Amarna Period, meanwhile, is known for its gorgeous artwork, despite all of its religious and social strife. Among Amarna artwork, the Bust of Nefertiti is among the most publicly known.

As with all ancient artwork, the art of ancient Egypt had multiple purposes: from aesthetics to religious iconography. Notably, the Xkr (“Kheker”) frieze is purely ornamental, whereas an object like the Rosetta Stone had been key to solving hieroglyphs in early Egyptology.

The Great Sphinx of Giza
The Heart Scarab of Hatnefer
The Golden Tree of Life Papyrus
The Narmer Palette
The Rosetta Stone
Throne of Tutankhamun
The ceiling of the tomb of Senenmut
Mummy portraits

Literature on Egyptian Mythology

Most of the Nile River Valley civilization took to writing on papyrus and sheets of softwood. Evidence is also provided in favor of clay tablets, as reflected in the Amarna Letters found at Akhenaten’s capital of Tell el-Amarna. Unlike the cuneiform reflected in the Amarna Letters, hieroglyphic images were the most commonly used means of writing.

By the way, hieroglyphs were not pictographic alphabet as some scholars had suggested in the past. Each symbol would represent a specific sound or a syllable, with hieroglyphs inspiring later hieratic and demotic scripts. Hieroglyphs were used almost exclusively in religious literature.

Surviving literature – hieroglyphic or otherwise – include hymns, funerary texts, autobiographical accounts, and poems.

The Book of the Dead
The Instruction of Amenemope
The Westcar Papyrus
The Instruction of Ptahhotep
The Story of Sinuhe
The Tale of the Shipwrecked Sailor
The Tale of Two Brothers

The-Egyptian-Book-of-the-Dead-The-Book-of-Going-Forth

Egyptian Mythology in Popular Media

Now, it’s impossible to discuss Egyptian mythology without noting its impact on popular media. We all know of Elizabeth Taylor’s role as Cleopatra; Gerard Butler’s 2016 take on the god Set; and of the running gag that all deserts in video games look suspiciously like watered-down takes on ancient Egypt.

Western interest in Egypt isn’t anything new. Romantics caught on to the Egyptomania of the 19th century, and kicked off the beginning of modern Egyptology. This led to the Egyptian Revival of the ‘20s and the growing presence of ancient Egypt in the media.

Viewed as the center for exotic opulence throughout the fad of Orientalism, the Western world attached itself to Egyptian epics. Information about the ancient civilization became a muddled mix of historicity and fantasy. Ancient Egypt became terribly misconstrued as nothing but pyramids, deserts, the Great Sphinx, and the Nile; the accomplishments of the storied nation became minimalized in favor of Western wonder.

The myths and stories of Egyptian mythology have found themselves in film time and time again. The dividing line between appropriate representation in media and inaccurate content is the inclusion of a qualified Egyptologist. Due to the above, the accuracy of films to actual myths varies.

Faraon (Pharaoh)
Moon Knight

What is the Central Theme of Egyptian Mythology?

Most of the Egyptian mythology surrounds the belief in rebirth, magic, and life after death in Duat. There is a misconception that the ancient Egyptians were a death-obsessed civilization. From mummies to grand pyramids, and seemingly exhaustive efforts being made for burials and funeral rites. However, such a belief was far from the truth.

The ancient Egyptians had a vehement love for life. So much so, that they believed there was life after the one lived on Earth. That there were gods who cared for them in the afterlife until their time to be reborn came. You see, eternal life was the pinnacle.

In ancient Egypt, mythology acted as a means to explain natural phenomena. Storms, drought, famine, and death were things to be feared. Chaos, above all else, was the greatest threat to the civilization’s stability. Thereby, the promise of a secure life after the one lived is the backbone of Egyptian mythology.

How to Cite this Article

There are three different ways you can cite this article.

1. To cite this article in an academic-style article or paper , use:

<a href=" https://historycooperative.org/egyptian-mythology/ ">Egyptian Mythology: The Gods, Heroes, Culture, and Stories of Ancient Egypt</a>

Egyptian Myth: A Very Short Introduction

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Egyptian Myth: A Very Short Introduction explores the cultural and historical background behind a wide variety of sources and objects on Egyptian mythology, from Cleopatra's Needle and Tutankhamun's golden statue, to a story on papyrus of the gods misbehaving. The world of Egyptian myth is complex. Mythology was an integral part of Egyptian culture for much of its timespan. What did the myths mean, and how have they been interpreted? How have the myths of deities such as Isis and Osiris influenced contemporary culture and become part of our cultural heritage?

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Is there an Egyptian hero? The contributions of mythological and literary studies to an Egyptological subject

2017, Egypt 2015: Perspectives of Research Proceedings of the Seventh European Conference of Egyptologists 2nd-7th June 2015, Zagreb, Croatia

When one thinks of heroes the images that come to mind are usually those of great warriors and of founders of civilizations. These men cause ruptures and introduce changes in their surroundings. Except in some specific periods of Ancient Egypt’s History, the idea of rupture and change is not a favourable one to the Egyptian mindset and political ideology. This reason led some Egyptologists to believe that there is not an Egyptian hero. There is, however, a broader way to perceive this ‘hero figure’. For decades, the scholars of mythology and literature have been studying the mythical hero. What they advocate is that this figure can be found in the accounts and narratives of practically every civilization, which leads us to the question: is there an Egyptian hero?

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This article re-evaluates the significance attributed to Hecataeus' encounter with the Theban priests described by Herodotus (2.143) by setting it against the evidence of Late Period Egyptian representations of the past. In the first part a critique is offered of various approaches Classicists have taken to this episode and its impact on Greek historiography. Classicists have generally imagined this as an encounter in which the young, dynamic and creative Greeks construct an image of the static, ossified and incredibly old culture of the Egyptians, a move which reveals deeper assumptions in the scholarly discourse on Greeks and 'other' cultures in the Mediterranean world. But the civilization that Herodotus confronted in his long excursus on Egypt was not an abstract, eternal Egypt. Rather, it was the Egypt of his own day, at a specific historical moment - a culture with a particular understanding of its own long history. The second part presents evidence of lengthy Late Period priestly genealogies, and more general archaizing tendencies. Remarkable examples survive of the sort of visual genealogy which would have impressed upon the traveling Greek historians the long continuum of the Egyptian past. These include statues with genealogical inscriptions and relief sculptures representing generations of priests succeeding to their fathers' office. These priestly evocations of a present firmly anchored in the Egyptian past are part of a wider pattern of cultivating links with the historical past in the Late Period of Egyptian history. Thus, it is not simply the marvel of a massive expanse of time which Herodotus encountered in Egypt, but a mediated cultural awareness of that time. The third part of the essay argues that Herodotus used this long human past presented by the Egyptian priests in order to criticize genealogical and mythical representations of the past and develop the notion of an historical past. On the basis of this example, the article concludes by urging a reconsideration of the scholarly paradigm for imagining the encounter between Greeks and 'others' in ethnographic discourse in order to recognize the agency of the Egyptian priests, and other non-Greek 'informants'.

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In this dictionary entry, learn how the roots of the word "mythology," from the Greek mythos (story) and logos (word), emphasize its ties to oral tradition.

In Search of Myths and Heroes (PBS)

This video documentary series, hosted by Michael Wood, details some of the most well-known myths and heroes around the world. The Queen of Sheba, Shangri-La, King Arthur, and Jason and the Golden Fleece each get their own episode.

Mythology and Folklore Resources ( The Mythology Podcast )

The Mythology Podcast provides a list of resources for all things mythology and folklore, including directories, classic texts, and a blogroll.

Mythology and Folklore: Similarities and Differences

"The Meaning of Myths, Folklore, Legends, and Fairy Tales" (ThoughtCo)

Esther Lombardi parses out generic differences in this article. She explains that myths and folktales share roots in oral storytelling, but the scope of these stories is different. Myths tend to look at big-picture questions, whereas folklore is more localized.

"The Difference Between Myths, Legends, and Fairy Tales" (The Poetics Project)

Learn more about the differences and points of connection between myth and folktales, courtesy of this article from The Poetics Project.

Folktexts: Folklore and Mythology Electronic Texts (Univ. of Pittsburgh)

This resource provides a repository of texts relating to myth and folklore, from A - Z. Among them, you'll find a Chinese Creation and Flood Myth from the Miao people, Blackfoot creation and origin myths, and Apuleius's Cupid and Psyche .

Before the scientific and technological advances of modern times could help explain natural phenomena, people turned to storytelling to understand the world around them. Famous tales from the ancient world have formed the basis for many works of literature and art up to the present day. From the Mesopotamian Epic of Gilgamesh to Ovid’s Metamorphoses, myths from civilizations of the past have retained cultural relevance well into the twenty-first century. Learn more about myths from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome below.

Mesopotamian Mythology

"Mesopotamian Mythology: The Ancient Gods of Sumer and Babylon" (Godchecker)

Discover the Mesopotamian pantheon ("all the gods" pertaining to a certain culture) via the Godchecker website. Learn about the Epic of Gilgamesh, and discover the connection between Sumerian, Akkadian, and Mesopotamian gods.

"Mesopotamian Mythology" (Ancient-Mythology.com)

Learn more about the interaction between gods and heroes in ancient Mesopotamian myth with this website, which links to articles on Abgal, Nabu, Zu, and more.

LitCharts Study Guide for The Epic of Gilgamesh

This LitCharts Study Guide will help you get to know the most famous piece of writing from Mesopotamia. Among its many sections are resources on context, both quick-reference and detailed plot summaries, and an interactive theme wheel.

"Great Myths and Legends: Adapa the Sage" (Univ. of Pennsylvania via YouTube)

Dr. Stephen J. Tinney presents a video lecture on flood mythology in Mesopotamia. The information presented is made possible through the recently-published text of ancient fragmentary tablets.

CrashCourse Video: "Ancient Mediterranean Pantheons" (YouTube)

Learn more about the Sumerian deities in a continuation of Mike Rugnetta’s program on ancient Mediterranean gods.

In Our Time: The Epic of Gilgamesh (BBC)

Melvyn Bragg hosts a radio program on The Epic of Gilgamesh with guests from leading UK universities. Learn how the tablets containing the story were gradually discovered, reassembled, and translated.

Egyptian Mythology

Egyptian Collection: Gods and Goddesses (The British Museum)

Discover the ancient Egyptian pantheon through the British Museum’s extensive collection of artifacts devoted to the deities.

"Gods of Egypt" (Tour Egypt)

Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism presents a comprehensive web guide to ancient Egyptian gods and goddesses. You'll find pages on Aken (Ferryman of the underworld), Mut (Grandmother of the Gods), Wadjet (the serpent goddess), and many others.

The History of Egypt Podcast

This podcast's many episodes allow you to uncover Egypt’s history up to the fall of Rome, and how it intertwines with "pyramids, pharaohs, gods, and mysteries."

"11 Most Popular Myths in Ancient Egypt" (Ancientfacts.net)

This article guides you through the most popular myths of ancient Egypt, beginning with the myth of creation and ending with the Cinderella-like tale of the Girl with Rose-red slippers.

"Ancient Egyptian Mythology" ( Ancient History Encyclopedia )

Joshua Mark outlines Egyptian mythology’s structures and stories as they relate to history and society. He begins with a helpfully detailed "definition" of Egyptian mythology.

Greek and Roman Mythology

Course on the Ancient Greek Hero (edX)

Delve deeply into the myths of Greek heroes in this 17-week free online course, co-sponsored by Harvard and taught by professors from Harvard and Brandeis.

Wikipedia Article on Greek Mythology

This article provides a broad overview of ancient Greek myths, from literary and archaeological sources to modern interpretations.

In Our Time : "The Greek Myths" (BBC)

Melvyn Bragg hosts a radio program on Greek myths, "from Achilles to Zeus," with guests from leading UK universities. Learn about Penelope's shroud, Arachne's presumption, and Cerberus the three-headed dog.

GreekMythology.com

The first website devoted exclusively to Greek myth, GreekMythology.com has operated since 1997. The site provides resources on nearly every individual god, Titan, or mortal involved in Greek mythology, and includes information on films and books which serve as a broad introduction to the topic.

Class on Greek and Roman Mythology (Coursera)

With this open online course, you can delve into the stories that comprise Greek and Roman myth with Professor Peter Struck of the University of Pennsylvania.

The Roman Empire: "Mythology" (PBS)

This article, which accompanies the PBS series on the history of ancient Rome, outlines ancient Roman myth and religious belief.

Wikipedia Article on Roman Mythology

Wikipedia offers an overview of Roman myths and religious practice. Learn about Rome's founding myth and interactions with foreign gods.

CrashCourse Video: "Greek and Roman Pantheons" (YouTube)

Watch and learn about the deities of ancient Greece and Rome with this CrashCourse video. It addresses origin stories, family relationships, and each god's "specialty."

Myths and History of Greece and Rome Podcast

This podcast overs well over 100 episodes, in which host Paul Vincent discusses the intersection between myth and history in ancient Greece and Rome.

The nations comprising Asia and Oceania are home to diverse peoples with distinct mythologies, grounded in the unique natural landscapes of the region. Some Chinese myths involve floods, while Polynesian legends tell of volcanic eruption and island formation. Further, religion and indigenous spiritual practice have influenced myths from Asia and Oceania. These include Hindu mythology in India and the Aboriginal belief in the prehistoric golden age of Dreamtime.

Indian Mythology

Wikipedia Hindu Mythology Portal

Wikipedia provides a sweeping overview of Hindu and Indian mythology and legend. You can learn about anything from demons to weapons to eschatology.

Hindu Texts (Internet Sacred Text Archive)

Read texts about the Hindu deities in English translation. This archive contains links to each of the four Vedas, the primary texts of Hinduism.

"East vs. West—The Myths that Mystify" (TED Talk)

Devdutt Pattanaik investigates the differences between Indian and Western myths, and suggests how these differences influence belief systems.

Indianmythology.com

Stories of Hindu deities and Indian epics are available in English and Hindi in this repository of mythic stories. You'll also find links to information about Indian temples.

CrashCourse Video: "Indian Pantheons" (YouTube)

Mike Rugnetta continues his exploration of mythic pantheons with this video on Indian gods. He focuses on stories that were written in Sanskrit.

Indian Mythology Archive ( The Mythology Podcast )

Learn more about the Ramayana, the Hindu goddess Kali, and monkey god Hanuman with these Mythology Podcast episodes.

Chinese Mythology

E.T.C. Werner's Myths and Legends of China (Project Gutenburg)

Read Werner’s influential and in-depth volume on Chinese mythology, first published in 1915. Learn about the goddess of mercy, the guardian of the gate of heaven, and many other stories.

Barbara Laban’s "Top 10 Chinese Myths" (The Guardian)

Author Barbara Laban shares her favorite Chinese myths in this article from The Guardian , from Sun WuKong the monkey king to the Chinese zodiac.

CrashCourse Video: "Flood Stories from China" (YouTube)

Mike Rugnetta teaches about Chinese flood stories in this CrashCourse video. He tells the story of Yu, an ancient engineer and mythical ruler.

"Chinese Myths and Legends" (Shen Yun Performing Arts)

The famous Chinese performance troupe Shen Yun provides a website with information on ancient Chinese legends.

"Chinese Mythology" (Windows to the Universe)

Explore Chinese mythological views on the ten suns, twelve moons, and story of creation on the Windows to the Universe website.

Japanese and Korean Mythology

"Mythology on the Japanese Main Island" (Shimane Prefecture)

Myths that came from the Shimane area of Japan, which is located on the main Honshu island, are explored on this website.

"Korean Mythological Gods and Stories" (Study.com)

Study.com provides an overview of Korean deities and legends. You'll learn about the mix of "shamanism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and various local myths" that inform the fluid Korean mythology.

"Japanese Mythology: 5 Ancient Myths and Legends" (Takelessons.com)

Explore five essential points of ancient Japanese mythology with this site. Included here are the Japanese creation myth, Amaterasu and the cave, Hare of Inaba, the legend of Emperor Jimmu, and more.

"Yokai" (The Mythology Podcast)

Discover one of the supernatural creatures of Japanese myth— the yokai—with The Mythology Podcast. In this episode, you'll encounter "human-headed trees, fox weddings, a trip to the underworld, and enchanted umbrellas."

The Dangun Myth and Foundation Day ( Korea Today via YouTube)

Watch this video to learn about the mythical founding of Korea. The Dangun myth stars Korea's legendary founder, the son of the Prince of the heavens and a woman who was once a bear.

Australian and Polynesian Mythology

"Australian Aboriginal Creation Stories" (National Geographic)

This article, which accompanies Morgan Freeman's National Geographic documentary The Story of God , details creation myths of the Aboriginal Australian people.

"The Gods of Aboriginal Australia" (Godchecker)

Godchecker's introduction to the Aboriginal Australian gods includes an A - Z index, a section on the mythological golden age of Dreamtime, and tracks the latest popular Australian deities based on webpage hits.

"Maui and the Creation of the Islands" (PBS)

This video, presented by Tom Cummings of Hawaii's Bishop Museum and featuring the storyteller Kealoha Kelekolio, relays information on the Hawaiian creation myth.

"Hawaiian Myths Tell A Story About Volcanic Activity at Kilauea" ( Forbes )

Discover how mythology interprets volcanic activity in Hawaii through this Forbes article. You'll learn about a volcanic fight between two mythological sisters, Pele and Hi'iaka.

"Mythology of the Polynesian Islands" (Window to the Universe)

Explore legends of the Maori people, Hawai’i, and Rapa Nue (Easter) Island via the Windows to the Universe Website. You'll meet the creator god Makemake, the Maori Sky Father Rangi, and many others.

From deserts to jungles, the African continent is composed of vastly diverse geographical climates and landscapes. The mythology of the continent reflects that diversity. The populations of the Middle East, located across the Mediterranean from North Africa, also developed wide-ranging belief systems. In this section, you'll encounter myths influenced by Judaism, Islam, and Zoroastrianism.

African Mythology

CrashCourse Video: "African Pantheons and the Orishas" (YouTube)

This CrashCourse video introduces you to the deities of the Yoruba people of western Africa. It gives particular attention to the Orisha spirits.

"The Gods of Africa" (Godchecker)

Godchecker provides a list of African deities, tracing similarities and differences among the pantheons of different cultures and tribes across the continent.

Dictionary of African Mythology (Oxford Reference)

Oxford Reference hosts a dictionary of African mythology by Harold Scheub. Though full access to the text requires a subscription, you’ll be able to search abstracts and titles of legends in alphabetical organization, and connect deities and stories to specific tribes and countries.

"West African Mythology" (Windows to the Universe)

This webpage offers an introduction to the mythology of the Yoruba and Fon people. Learn about Shango, the Yoruba deity of thunder and lightning, and many others.

"Top 10 African Myths" ( The African Exponent )

African myths, ranging from the story of the Zambezi River God to the creation of the world, are collected in this article from online news outlet The African Exponent .

"Yoruba Myth, Folklore, and the Orishas" (The Mythology Podcast)

Listen to this podcast for an introduction to Yoruba religion and mythology. You'll learn about the culture's connection to divination, and learn about some of the Orishas in the Yoruba pantheon.

Arabian, Islamic, and Iranian Mythology

Radio Programs on Arabian Mythology (BBC)

In a series of radio programs hosted by the BBC, you can listen and learn about touchstones of Arabian myth, from jinn to the One Thousand and One Nights .

Wikipedia Article on "Islamic Mythology"

Wikipedia’s entry on Islamic mythology discusses the supernatural events, beings, and sacred places that figure in the Qur'an.

"Iranian Mythology: Gods and Goddesses" (Circle of Ancient Iranian Studies)

This post from the Circle of Ancient Iranian Studies offers brief descriptions of each god and goddess in the Persian pantheon, from Agas (demoness of illness) to Zurvan (god of infinite time and space).

Video on Zoroastrianism (Khan Academy)

This video details the rise of the ancient Iranian religion Zoroastrianism. You'll encounter Zarathustra, Ahura Mazda, and the Avesta.

Jewish Mythology

Wikipedia Article on "Jewish Mythology"

The Wikipedia entry on Jewish mythology provides a good point of departure for further exploration. Learn about the creation myth in Genesis (which is shared with Christianity), and find links to separate articles on Jewish apocrypha, Merkabah mysticism, and more.

"Eight Fascinating Jewish Myths" (BeliefNet.com)

This article provides an overview of mythology associated with Judaism, from golem to Solomon’s vampire. Learn about the many sources for Jewish myth, from the Talmud to Kabbalistic literature.

"Solomon’s Ring" ( Myths and Legends Podcast )

In this podcast, hear the story of King Solomon’s magical ring. Purportedly a gift from God, the ring allowed him to control demons and had quite a few other impressive powers, too.

"Turning to the Angels to Save Jewish Mythology" ( Ha'aretz )

Read about the legend of the Watchers and the mythology of angels in this article from an Israeli newspaper, which connects Judaic myth with the wider world of the ancient Middle East.

Mythology from the Northern climes features snow queens and fae, cattle raids and golden eggs. Here, you can find information on some of the most influential myths of the European continent and the British isles. You'll discover tensions and continuities between ancient, pagan myths and the Christian tradition which dominated the region from the Middle Ages onward.

Russian and Slavic Mythology

"5 Most Popular Tales from Slavic Mythology" (Slavorum)

Familiarize yourself with popular Slavic myths through this article. You'll learn about the god Rod, who came to earth in a golden egg, and why the lord of darkness Chernobog wanted to capture the universe.

"The Gods of Slavic Mythology" (Godchecker)

Here, Godchecker provides information on the pantheons of Russia and Eastern Europe. The A - Z index will introduce you to Baba-Yaga, Mikula, Zorya and more.

"What is Known About Slavic Mythology" (Culture.pl)

This article presents a broad overview of deities and myths from across Eastern Europe. Learn about Perun, the most important god in the Slavic pantheon, and his many incarnations.

"Russian and Slavic Mythological Creatures" (Study.com)

Learn about spirits and creatures featured in Russian and Slavic myths via Study.com. The article introduces both single-figure creatures and spirits.

Celtic Mythology

"The Gods of Celtic Mythology" (Godchecker)

Learn more about the ancient Celtic pantheon through Godchecker. You'll read about the power of the Druids, and meet "megalithic military mother goddess" Morrigan.

"Irish Mythology" (Luminarium)

Let Luminarium introduce you to Ireland’s ancient Celtic deities and heroes, from the legendary heroes Fionn mac Cumhail and Cú Chulainn to the gods Danu and Dagda.

"Celtic Mythology: The Mythological Cycles" (Sacredfire.net)

This webpage offers information about the different mythic story-cycles, along with an introduction to some of the more famous Celtic tales like Tain bo Cualinge.

The Celts Documentary: "Sacred Groves" (BBC)

The third episode in the BBC's series on the Celts focuses on Celtic mythology and its relation to the pagan religious practice of Druidism.

Norse Mythology

"Viking and Norse Mythology" (History on the Net)

A collection of information on Norse gods and creatures, from giants to land spirits, is available on this website. Learn about Freya and Baldur, along with Yggdrasil and the nine worlds.

CrashCourse Video: "The Norse Pantheon" (YouTube)

Meet the Norse gods Loki, Thor, Freya, Odin and more in this video. CrashCourse recommends that you watch this video before Ragnorok, as it may not be available when the universe ends.

In Our Time : "The Norse Gods" (BBC)

Here, host Melvyn Bragg moderates a conversation on the Norse pantheon. Learn about Valhalla, Thor and his hammer, and an all-important ash tree.

The Norse Mythology Blog

Dr. Karl Seigfried blogs here about Norse religion and mythology. You'll find posts on everything from mythology's influence on current events to shield-maidens.

"Norse Gods and Goddesses" (Mythologian.net)

In this post, delve into stories of Norse gods and goddesses and their rise and fall to Ragnarok (“the twilight of the gods”).

Ancient Native American tribes held many different beliefs about the nature of the universe in North America. Meanwhile, in South America, native peoples such as the Aztec and Inca had their own visions of gods and the wider world around them. Spanning two continents, mythology of the Americas varies as widely as the rainforests, plains, and tundra in which they were formed.

Mythology of the Indigenous Peoples of North America

Wikipedia Article on "Mythologies of Indigenous Peoples of North America"

The Wikipedia portal to Native American mythology is organized by tribe and region for a comprehensive introduction to pantheons and legends.

"Inuit Mythology" (Windows to the Universe)

The Windows to the Universe site provides information on Inuit myths. Here, you'll be introduced to the Inuit deities of the sun, moon, and sea.

"Mythology of North American Indians" (Windows to the Universe)

Here, you can find introductions to myths of the Algonquin, Pawnee, Navajo, and Lakota tribes. Learn about the Algonquian tribe's many names for the full moon, and the connection between coyotes and the Milk Way in Navajo myth.

Native American Mythology Resource Guide (Touro College)

The Touro College library provides an introductory resource guide to Native American myth, including book selections and web resources.

Central and South American Mythology

"Aztec Mythology" (Windows to the Universe)

Windows to the Universe lays out Aztec myths related to celestial deities and planets. Learn about the moon goddess Coyolxauhqui and the sun god Huitzilopochtli.

"Aztec Creation Myth: The Legend of the Fifth Sun" (ThoughtCo)

Did you know the Aztecs believed their world had been created and destroyed four times before? In this ThoughtCo article, read about the Aztecs’ calendar, mythology, and their vision of the world’s creation.

Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian: "The Creation Story of the Maya" (YouTube)

Watch this short Smithsonian video about the Popol Vuh, the book detailing the Mayan creation story. You'll discover tales of the Hero Twins and the creation of the sky.

"Mythology of the Mayas" (Windows to the Universe)

The Mayans’ mythological understanding of the planets and elements is described here. Learn about how the Mayans' detailed astronomical knowledge informed their mythology.

"The Gods of Mayan Mythology" (Godchecker)

Godchecker introduces the Mayan pantheon here. Discover information on Cabrakan (God of the mountains), the hero twins Hunahpu and Xbalanque, and the World-tree.

"Amazon Mythology" (Windows to the Universe)

Windows to the Universe uncovers the mythology of the Mamaiurans, an Amazon Indian people living in Brazil. You'll learn about the moon god Iae, and why the Mamaiurans had to share daylight with the king of the birds.

"The Gods of South America" (Godchecker)

Like other Godchecker pages, this introduction to the gods of Brazil, Peru, and Chile includes an A - Z index of gods and a list of the latest popular deities.

"Inca Mythology" (Windows to the Universe)

Explore Incan mythology of the sun and earth on this webpage. You'll find brief introductions to the generous sun god Inti and his wife Pachamama.

"Incan Mythology: The Golden Gods of the Andes" (Godchecker)

Godchecker provides an introduction to the Incan deities. Meet the potato goddess Axomamma, and discover how the health goddess Cocomamma met an unfortunate end.

Resources for Teaching Mythology

Sharing mythology from around the globe with students allows them to appreciate unique stories and connect cross-cultural ideas, and also helps them understand the origins of literature, history, and the arts. With the following tools, you can create lesson plans and find inspiration for assignments and assessments.

Teaching Tips from Mythweb

Ideas for creative writing assignments and etymological explorations abound in this aggregated list of lesson plans and activities to teach students about mythology.

"Mythology" (Windows to the Universe)

This resource from the National Earth Science Teachers Association draws comparisons between mythology and the natural world. You can delve into specific myths about planets and astrological phenomena, family trees of deities, and myths by region.

MythFun.com

The Myth Man’s website provides a colorful spin on Greek myth, telling stories of heroes, gods, and creatures alongside a look at mythology’s influence on contemporary life. It also offers two mythology quizzes.

"Myths, Folktales, and Fairy Tales": Teacher’s Activity Guide (Scholastic)

Well-known publisher Scholastic has collaborated with authors to create resources that inspire students to learn about and write their own larger-than-life stories.

Mythologyteacher.com

English teacher Zak Hamby has compiled a website of teaching materials and sample lesson plans for educators looking to teach Greek, Roman, and Norse myths to their students.

ArtsEdge: "Myths and Heroes" (The Kennedy Center)

Nested under ArtsEdge's "Myths and Heroes" section, you'll find lesson plans about myths for students from fifth through twelfth grades.

"Folktales, Fairytales and Mythology" (National Endowment for the Humanities)

Several back-to-school lesson plans and resources are available courtesy of the NEH, including one on Greek mythology and another on "Navigating Ancient Worlds."

Teacher Resources in Latin, Greek, Mythology and Classics (American Classical League)

The ACL provides information on teaching tools, resources, and links on the classical world for educators and students alike. You'll need to create an account to access the content.

Mythology resources (Teachers Pay Teachers)

Search for lesson plans and assessments on mythology, created by teachers for teachers, for varying grade levels. You'll find entire unit plans along with individual activities.

The resources below will help you delve deeper into the world of mythology, inside or outside of the classroom. Fundamental texts in the study of mythology are covered here, along with podcasts and encyclopedias to empower you to discover new myths.

A Complete Encyclopedia of Myths and Legends

This alphabetized online encyclopedia contains A - Z entries on characters and tropes from myths worldwide. You'll find entries on trees in mythology, the Bhagavad Gita , Micronesian mythology, and much more.

Encyclopedia Mythica (Pantheon.org)

Encyclopedia Mythica provides over 7,000 web articles relating to myths from around the globe, organized by geographical region and special interest content areas.

Mythology Podcasts (PlayerFM)

PlayerFM has aggregated an up-to-date list of the best mythology podcasts, including Jason Weisner’s popular Myths and Legends .

LitCharts Study Guide to Margaret Hamilton’s Mythology

Explore Hamilton’s famous 1942 book, which serves as a comprehensive introduction to the Greek, Roman, and Norse gods, with this LitCharts study guide.

Bulfinch’s Mythology Online (Project Gutenberg)

Access Thomas Bulfinch’s formative work on mythology, first published in 1867. It's available in several electronic formats via Project Gutenberg.

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Essay Database >
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Essay on History

Research paper on egyptian mythology

Type of paper: Research Paper

Topic: History , War , Culture , Mythology , Middle East , God , Character , Egypt

Published: 12/09/2019

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Egyptian history is full of myths and has always been fascinating for the readers since time immemorial. There are several mythical characters in the Egyptian stories that continue to attract the readers to the ancient civilization of Egypt. Myths help in providing the old indigenous account of culture, traditions to newer generations from the older ones. Egyptian myths have been transferred to newer generations from older generations and remind Egyptians of their glorious past. This paper discusses the Egyptian myth, other related aspects and the Egyptian mythical character Seth. Seth is considered as the god of chaos in Egypt. This character is identified as the adversary of the Egyptian god Osiris. Since Seth was the god of chaos and adversary of Osiris, he is often portrayed as the negative `character but he was not completely negative because only he had the capacity to control the chaotic situations. Seth became very powerful and significant during the second dynasty of Egypt and he took the place of Horus as the guardian of pharaohs during the third millennium BC. Seth was defeated in an eight year long war with the Horus and lost the guardianship of pharaohs. In the deadly war, Seth tore the left eye of Horus but lost his leg and testicles. This war turned out to be a real detrimental war for him. Apart from losing his limbs, Seth lost the kingship and was thrown out from the soil of Egypt. He was also forced to compromise with Horus and to return his eye to him. Horus was declared the winner by the council of gods and was reinstated at his previous position. Seth was ousted from the Egypt but later on he was arranged to be a part of the sun. The character of Seth has a significant role in the Egyptian mythology. Seth is portrayed as a human being with undetermined facial features. The character has been portrayed differently in many Egyptian books. On of the most famous and significant Egyptian book “the book of dead” recognizes him as “lord of the northern sky”. He has been said responsible for the clouds and storms. His appearance was fearful and people as well animals were afraid of him. The character of Seth represents simultaneously antagonist and protagonist in the Egyptian mythology and has been a substance of curiosity for the readers since the beginning. Seth is a powerful figure of the Egyptian mythology that has been portrayed negatively due to some of his negative deeds. The origin of Seth is considered at a foreign place other than the Egypt and perhaps this is the reason why Seth is depicted in a negative role throughout the Egyptian myths. After having observed the abovementioned account of the Egyptian mythology and a character of the Egyptian myths, it is clear that myths are a very important part of any culture. These myths provide very significant information related to the culture and the traditions. The character of Seth is a very significant character of Egyptian mythology and attracts the attention of readers. The character represents the negative powers but it does not make his significance smaller in any ways. The character of Seth in the Egyptian mythological history is as important as other mythical characters are.

Works Cited

Muller, W. Max. Egyptian Mythology. Massachusetts: Kessinger Publishing, 1918. Pinch, Geraldine. Egyptian Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Goddesses, and Traditions of Ancient Egypt. New York: Oxford University Press, 2002.

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World Mythology (HUM 1015)

Start Here!
Asian & Middle Eastern Cultures
European Cultures
North, Meso, South American Cultures
Databases and Internet Links

Research Paper Ideas

Citation Help

Database: Artstor

With approximately 300 collections composed of over 2 million images, find artifacts from the Smithsonian, treasures from the Louvre, and panoramic, 360-degree views of architectural wonders.

Mexico, Chiapas, Palenque Region, Maya. Incense-Burner Support. c. 600-900. Artstor, library-artstor-org.ccco.idm.oclc.org/asset/AMICO_CL_103802232

Painted incense stand with bowl. 1200-1000 BCE. Artstor, library-artstor-org.ccco.idm.oclc.org/asset/LESSING_ART_10313048841

Below you will find common mythic themes and elements for certain world mythologies. Also included are some ideas for research paper topics for each culture. You will notice that some mythic themes and elements are common across different cultures and mythologies (for example Greek and Roman).

Note: The following information can be found using the Gale Virtual Reference Library Philosophy & Religion database provided under the Database and Internet Links tab, and the course study outline available in the Start Here! tab.

Universal Themes

Common Universal Themes in World Mythology

Creation and the Ordering of the Cosmos/Reality Afterlife and immortality Gender Roles - social roles and ideals Deities - relation to the divine, nature Acquisition of Fire/Technology Geophysical Phenomenon (e.g. Flood or Apocalyptic myths; Time)

Common Themes in Greek Mythology:

-Obedience to a higher being or beings

-Human behavior; explaining consequences of good and bad behavior

-Relationships between men and women to one another

-War and military honor; Creation of Heroes

-explaining the destructive forces of natural disasters

-passage of time and life, including the afterlife

Paper Ideas:

- A potter creating artistic pots depicting the relationship between Zeus and Athena, or other characters from Greek mythology.(Why are you depicting that scene; what does the myth mean to you?)

- A home owner, with a family, and a stranger come to the home asking for shelter (Xenos, Theos)

- A Greek solider explaining his experience during the Trojan War

- A young Greek person has a dream about crossing the River Styx and seeing a deceased relative (describe the journey, how did you get to the underworld, did you meet other characters from Greek mythology there?)

Common Themes in Roman Mythology:

-Celebration of Virtues (Honor, Bravery, Self-Sacrifice, and piety)

-Gods and Goddess represent Virtue (deities do not possess the same human-like weaknesses and vices)

-War and Military Honor

-Founding of Rome (Romulus and Remus story)

- A roman general speaks to his troops before a major battle (explain how the deities might favor those who demonstrate virtues listed above)

- Comparison of Greek and Roman Gods and/or Goddesses from the perspective of a Roman scholar

- You are an advisor to an Emperor of Rome, and have been tasked with explaining ways to honor the gods and goddess with a ceremony or festival

India/Hindu

Common Themes in India/Hindu Mythology:

Importance of nature (sacred Animals, Trees, and mountains for example)

Eschatology,Death, Reincarnation of the soul

Ritualistic festivals and devotion to gods and goddesses

- Parents explain why good behavior is important to a child (Dharma, reincarnation )

- A village elder explains the significance of a sacred Tree within the village

- a young person talks about the forms of Vishnu, and how they see Vishnu in their daily lives, to a sibling.

Common Themes in Norse Mythology:

- Bravery/courage while facing a harsh fate

-Impending destruction of man and deities

-struggle between good and evil

- focus on nature (fire, ice, trees, rainbows are all natural elements that appear in Norse Mythology)

- Creation of Sagas to honor ancestors

Paper Ideas:

- An elder member of a Viking family writes a saga describing the heroic efforts of a late family member

- You are part of the valkyries, and are selecting fallen warriors to enter Valhalla ( explain why a certain warrior makes it in to Valhalla, while another may be left out)

North American

Common Themes in North American Mythology:

-Bridge the gap between hunter/gatherer culture and settlement culture

-Varied beliefs according to unique history of events and geographic relationships

-Animal Spirits (e.g. Buffalos, wolves, rabbits are different types of animal spirits that appear in North American mythologies).

-Origin stories (Commonalities in stories due to mass migration across Bering Straight and later spreading of tribes across North America)

-Sacred pieces; pipes, drums, robes,

-Gender roles (e.g. Buffalo Woman & Handsome Stranger

- You are a young warrior sent on a vision quest; describe what you are doing, and how it relates to the mythology of your culture, why is your vision quest important?

- As a Navajo elder, you must explain the significance of the four sacred mountains of the Navajo and how the Navajo came to be.

- You are a Creek woman explaining the story of the Lucky Hunter and the Corn Woman to your children (Creek Indian creation myth).

- You are a Ute Indian tribesman, and you spotted a wolf and a coyote while wondering your territory. Explain the symbolism that these two creatures mean to your tribe. Is it good or bad that you saw these two animals? Should you be concerned at the sight of a wolf or coyote?

Meso-American

Common Themes in Meso-American Mythologies:

-Developed stable and sophisticated cultures early (as compared to Europe and China for example)

-astronomical observation and creation of complex calendars; movements of planets tracked (e.g. Venus)

-architecture ( pyramid builders)

-The mystery and mists of time; development of corn

-The use of slaves

-Human sacrifice

-The Green Man (The maintenance of the cycle of nature)

- You are a member of the Mayan civilization. Explain the significance of your birth date, does the date have any baring on the outcome of your life or your fate?

- As a high priest in the Mayan culture, you must keep the deities happy and appeased. What rituals and practices do you use, and why is this beneficial for your culture? ( NOTE : a paper like this can be graphic, please do not focus your paper on graphic or inappropriate images and themes. Human sacrifice and bloodletting are examples of practices that occurred in Meso-American cultures, do not include graphic details of these practices, but instead explain how and why such rituals were practiced in these civilizations .)

- You are an Aztec elder and want to explain the origins of the civilization to a young family member. You explain the 4 suns (or worlds) that came before your time, and explain their significance to the civilization.

Common Themes in Egyptian Mythology

-Creation Myth (e.g. World, Ennead of Heliopolis,)

-Afterlife ( i.e. Myths of Osiris, Book of the Dead, mummies & pyramids )

-Numerous cults and rituals to deities (e.g. Cult of Isis )

-Solar Myths; Sun deities and the cycle of their daily movement

-The idea of Order ( ma at )- reflecting notions of truth, cooperation and Justice

-The influence of Egyptian Myths and rituals (e.g. Greeks and Romans borrow mythological elements and deities to fit their cultures)

- You are an Egyptian watching the sun rise over the Nile River, explain the significance of this daily occurrence, where did the sun go when it was night? What do you believe happened to the sun or deities that are associated with the sun during the night?

- You are an ancient scholar, you are studying the Cult of Osiris. You have read or been told the story of Osiris by Egyptians, and discover that Plutarch, a Roman Historian, has also recorded a version of the story of Osiris. Do you notice any variation in the Egyptian version of the story whe comparing it with Plutarch's version?

- You are an Egyptian farmer working lands near the Nile. Which gods and/or goddesses do you rely on for a healthy and bountiful crop? Do you feel that they help or do the deities seem to be against you? Why would the deities favor you or want to destroy you?

Common Themes in Celtic Mythology:

- Celtic cultures were diverse and deities and myths were localized depending on the tribe.

- Oral tradition of myth telling; most tales not recorded in text ( recorded versions of Celt tales come from Roman sources; Romans and Celts were enemies, thus Roman accounts are often unfavorable views of the Celtic culture).

- Myths of the Otherworld ; How to get to the Otherworld; The use of Burial mounds ( sidhe), importance of geographic features (e.g. lakes, caves)

- Magic, Magicians, and supernatural events (e.g. the magic cauldron or kettles)

- Epic and perilous adventure stories; mysterious and dangerous lands; larger than life heroes

- Romance, love, and tricksters can be found any many tales.

- As a Druid priest, you are teaching the tale of Dagda. What role does Dagda play as a member of the religious sect of Celtic culture? Do you have any magic powers as a Druid priest?

- You are Celtic hunter that has come across another tribe of Celts that you are not familiar with. Discuss the differences in your tribes with a member from the new tribe you have found. Are your deities the same? Do they have the same names? Did you hear a new version of a old tale?

- You are a Roman solider that just fought a band of Celtic warriors. You have taken a Celt warrior prisoner, and having spent a lot of time in the region, can understand the what the prisoner is saying. Explain the conversation. Is the warrior praying to a certain deity? Does the warrior tell you anything about the Celtic culture and beliefs?

Common Themes in Chinese Mythology :

- Complex and old mythology (Chinese history, mythology, and reality intertwine).

- Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism factor into Chinese Mythology.

-Changing dynasties means more or less emphasis on particular deities in the pantheon of Chinese gods and goddesses.

- creation of the cosmos and human beings out of chaos (e.g. Pan Gu and the creation of the world)

- nature; Explanations of natural phenomena; Animism used often to explain the natural world.

- Astronomical observation and the use of myth to explain the origins of stars, the sun, the moon and their movements.

- moral issues.

- ancestor worship (became more important to Chinese culture with the rise of the Zhou Dynasty)

- An elderly member of your family has recently passed away after a long life. Explain how your family views the passing of your relative based on chinese mythology. Do you think your relative was favored by the deities, or does their death make you think that your ancestor crossed the deities somehow? Will your family do any rituals or ceremonies to honor your ancestors?

- As an ancient Chinese astronomers, you explain various myths that account for the sun, moon, and the appearance of the Milky Way in the night sky.

- You are a Chinese hunter/fisherman and are hoping to pass down your skills to your children. You tell them the legend of the three Sovereigns and explain how this story is important to understand if the children want to be successful as hunters/fishermen.

Common Themes in Japanese Mythology:

- Creation Myth (creation of the islands of Japan)

- Focus on nature; Everything in nature has a kami -- a spirit or soul.

- Many centuries myths were orally transmitted; 712 CE myths recorded in the Kojiki for Emperor; Another text, the Nihongi created around 720 CE contains more legends and myths, as well the genealogy of the imperial family (both text contain elements of Taoism).

- Gods granting divine rights to Japanese Emperor

- The importance of mirrors as a mythic symbol

- Rituals to honor the Gods and Goddesses (e.g.kagura dances)

- You have grown up in a mountainous region of Japan, and have heard tales of the tengu, or trickster spirits that are part human and part bird, and inhabit the area. You have figured out a way to play a trick on the tengu, who do not like being on the opposite end of tricks. What did you do and how did the tengu respond to your trickster ways?

- You serve the Japanese Imperial family as a scribe and/or scholar. You are writing a personal journal entry to yourself questioning the divine origins of the Imperial family. Do you believe that they are truly descendents from the gods and goddesses as Japanese mythology claims? Why or why not?

- As a Japanese rice farmer, you harvest the most important crop for the civilization. Discuss the various deities and legends that help you cultivate this important food crop. (e.g. Inari, Amaterasu)

Common Themes in Arthurian Legend:

- A blend of Celtic Myth, history, and medieval romance; Arthurian Legend factor in to the Mythology of the British Isles (Britain, Ireland, Wales).

- King Arthur may or may not have really existed

- Many Characters in early Arthurian Legends based on older Celtic myth characters (e.g. Merlin and Myrddin)

- Equality amongst Knights of the Round Table.

- Magic Powers, supernatural beings, and epic quests part of Arthurian legends.

- Loyalty and human weakness explored in Arthurian legends.

- King Arthur is considered a timeless, or eternal king; Scholars have seen similarities between King Arthur and Sun Gods (die and set in the west, but reborn)

- Legends transform over time (Search for Magic cauldron becomes search for Holy Grail); Medieval writers create new Arthurian legends

Paper Ideas:

- You are a medieval scholar and you have a new take on the Legend of King Arthur and his sword, Excalibur. Why do you need to retell this tale? What is different in your telling of the legend compared to other versions of the this legend?

- Suppose that King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table did exist, and you are an aspiring Knight, hoping to be amongst those that set at the Round Table. How would you gain favor with the King? Describe what it takes to be a Knight of the Round Table.

- Compare an Arthurian Legend with the Celtic myth from which it originated. How are they similar? How do they differ? (e.g. Merlin compared to Myrddin ; Quest for the magic cauldron compared with quest for the Holy Grail).

Polynesian Mythology

Common Themes in Polynesian Mythology:

-Polynesia consists of several islands and cultures located in the Pacific Ocean ( Ranging from Midway and Hawaii in the north to New Zealand in the south, the triangular area called Polynesia also includes Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga, Tuamotu, the Cook Islands, and the Pitcairn Islands).

-Though slight variations in mythologies exist based on particular island cultures, many of the basic themes, gods, and stories are shared throughout Polynesia.

- Large emphasis on nature; Myths and legends explain the importance of the Ocean to Polynesian cultures.

- Creation myths very important to Polynesian Cultures (e.g. Ao and Po Hawaiian Myth; Te Po, Te Kore, Rangi, and Papi Moari myth)

- Yams and sweet potatoes are stable crops of Polynesian cultures, and have their own myths and legends surrounding them.

- Humans must deal with uncooperative or unfriendly gods in someway (e.g. myth of Maui)

- As a yam farmer on the island of Samoa, you have had a dismal crop and need to explain to your family why the deities cursed you this harvest. Using myths, explain what went wrong, and if possible, how to correct this problem for the next harvest.

- You have grown up in the ancient Hawaiian culture, and experience the arrival of European explorers coming to your shore for the first time. Based on your myths, how do you interpret the arrive of of these entities? Are they human? Is this a good or bad sign from the Gods and Goddesses?

- As an experienced sailor from Tahiti, you are about to embark on a trip across the ocean. Are there rituals that will help you have a safe voyage? Are their mythical creatures or certain deities you should worry about while you prepare for the voyage? Explain your thoughts as you load your craft for the ocean voyage.

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The hidden role of the Milky Way in ancient Egyptian mythology

by University of Portsmouth

Ancient Egyptians were known for their religious beliefs and astronomical knowledge of the sun, moon, and planets, but up until now, it has been unclear what role the Milky Way played in Egyptian religion and culture.

A new study by a University of Portsmouth astrophysicist sheds light on the relationship between the Milky Way and the Egyptian sky-goddess Nut.

Nut is the goddess of the sky, who is often depicted as a star-studded woman arched over her brother, the Earth god Geb. She protects the Earth from being flooded by the encroaching waters of the void, and plays a key role in the solar cycle , swallowing the sun as it sets at dusk and giving birth to it once more as it rises at dawn.

The paper draws on ancient Egyptian texts and simulations to argue that the Milky Way might have shone a spotlight, as it were, on Nut's role as the sky. It proposes that in winter, the Milky Way highlighted Nut's outstretched arms, while in summer, it traced her backbone across the heavens.

Associate Professor in Astrophysics, Dr. Or Graur, said, "I chanced upon the sky-goddess Nut when I was writing a book on galaxies and looking into the mythology of the Milky Way. I took my daughters to a museum and they were enchanted by this image of an arched woman and kept asking to hear stories about her."

"This sparked my interest, and I decided to combine both astronomy and Egyptology to do a double analysis—astronomical and cross-cultural—of the sky-goddess Nut and whether she really could be linked to the Milky Way."

Dr. Graur drew from a rich collection of ancient sources, including the Pyramid Texts, Coffin Texts, and the Book of Nut, and compared them alongside sophisticated simulations of the Egyptian night sky.

He found compelling evidence that the Milky Way highlighted Nut's divine presence.

Furthermore, Dr. Graur connected Egyptian beliefs with those of other cultures, showing similarities in how different societies interpret the Milky Way.

He said, "My study also shows that Nut's role in the transition of the deceased to the afterlife and her connection to the annual bird migration is consistent with how other cultures understand the Milky Way. For example, as a spirits' road among different peoples in North and Central America or as the Birds' Path in Finland and the Baltics."

"My research shows how combining disciplines can offer new insights into ancient beliefs, and it highlights how astronomy connects humanity across cultures, geography, and time. This paper is an exciting start to a larger project to catalog and study the multicultural mythology of the Milky Way."

The work is published in the Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage .

Provided by University of Portsmouth

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